The Dutch Caribbean Police Force (KPCN) has published the Crime Analysis (CBA) 2020-2024. This is the third analysis since 2010 and provides insight into the crime developments on Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba over the past four years. In addition, it forms the basis for a strategic approach to security and law enforcement in the Dutch Caribbean. Unlike previous editions, this analysis was conducted entirely by KPCN analysts. This analysis offers policymakers and citizens valuable insights for a collaborative approach to security challenges.
Several Insights from the CBA 2020-2024
The analysis highlights several trends and challenges that impact security in the region:
- Traffic Crime: Issues caused by poorly maintained roads, increasing traffic congestion, and alcohol consumption.
- Youth Crime: Alarming increase in theft and violence, while there is a lack of youth care and rehabilitation options.
- Violent Crime: Rise in domestic and nightlife-related violence, requiring additional measures.
- Property Crime: Declining numbers overall, but concerns about scooter thefts on Bonaire and home burglaries on Saba.
- Drug Crime: Persistent issue with drug exports from Bonaire and limited visibility into involved criminal networks.
- Firearm Crime: Alarming increase, especially in the second half of 2024, with young suspects playing a significant role.
- Migration Crime: Increase in human trafficking and exploitation due to political instability in the region.
- Financial and Economic Crime: Fraud and money laundering, especially in the real estate sector.
- Cybercrime: Growing reports of fraud and hacking, while law enforcement faces challenges in investigations.
- Environmental Crime: Illegal waste dumping and damage to coral reefs call for stricter enforcement.
Basis for strategic priorities
The CBA 2020-2024 is based on KPCN data, supported with information from, among others, the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (KMar), the Coast Guard of the Caribbean Area, and the Detective Collaboration Team. Through close cooperation with chain partners, a complete view of crime trends is created.
The goal is to identify crime patterns, spot trends in a timely manner and develop targeted strategies. By sharing this information, the KPCN aims to contribute to a safe living environment and encourage effective measures against crime. The CBA targets policymakers, collaborating partners and the community so that everyone can better understand what is going on and how to work together for
safety. As a result of the research, KPCN will work with chain partners to determine strategic priorities for the coming years.
The power of intel and analysis
Head of Information and Expertise, Mr. Melvin Sint Jago, emphasizes the importance of this analysis for effective and intel-driven law enforcement: “By systematically analyzing crime data, we can spot trends early and develop targeted strategies. This enables us to act proactively and deploy our resources more efficiently, which is essential for a safer Dutch Caribbean.”
